The federal government wants banks to lend more money to small businesses, but demands from federal regulators for more capital and higher deposit insurance premiums, and fears about what Congress may do next, are choking off the flow of much-needed money. MSNBC.com

On Main Street, small businesses have been hit hard by the recession. Unable to obtain affordable capital and often in need of technical assistance to help them survive, many small businesses—needing direct help—are closing their doors and laying off workers. Reuters.com

Under a new California bill, employees laid off from businesses with fewer than 20 workers would qualify for the temporary federal COBRA subsidy. Health insurers would have to notify previously insured employees. LATimes.com

Sales and Marketing

When Word-of-Mouth Marketing Bites BackA lot of reputations are at stake when you give a referral—including yours. Make your referrals count, make them honest and maintain your integrity. Entrepreneur.com